Since
I'm not a professional writer it's easy to dismiss anything I might type about
Thelonious Monk. I have no particular insight into his career or his life. Nothing
to reveal about "'Round Midnight" or his singular style on piano. Instead
of typing, let me try telepathy.

I'm not
going to tell you that you're going to love Monk's music. Maybe you've already
made up your mind. Do a quick personal inventory. See if there's a little room
for something fun and serious, something surprising and traditional. Go ahead,
give it a shot.

With a
computer it's easy to dig in. Spell it right the first time, "Thelonious
Monk." Then listen, especially the solo stuff. Read some of the history or
stories about Monk. Watch a documentary. At least watch until you find the
scene on a bus in Copenhagen, I think, when Johnny Griffin shows his new pants
to Monk. So worth it.